Swiss watchmaker releases PATCH paper wristwatch

Altanus, a Geneva-based watchmaker better known for its luxury timepieces made from materials such as steel and gold has turned to a slightly less traditional material for its PATCH watch – paper. Described by the company as having zero environmental impact, the PATCH was inspired by the papier- mâché floats of Italy’s Viareggio Carnival and is made from biodegradable paper in a range of eye-catching colors and designs.

Thankfully, the PATCH isn’t intended as a disposable timepiece and won’t dissolve into a sticky mess if you work up a sweat wearing it as it is treated with a special coating that is hypoallergenic and makes it waterproof and shock- and tear-resistant. With a simple LED ticker, the watch weighs just 11 grams (0.38 oz) and is designed to fit snugly on the wearer’s wrist. Maybe the company should think about giving the PATCH an electronic paper display like that first demonstrated by Seiko Epson back in 2005 to give the watch the full paper treatment.

The PATCH sells for 24 euro (approx. US$34) through stockists of more traditional Altanus watches.